There are an abundance of uses for garden fencing but the one that is of highest concern currently is protecting your garden for the winter and using fencing as a shield. It is important to remember that fences have a variety of uses. Not only does garden composite decking boards fencing protect your garden from the harsh weather conditions but they offer an attractive surround which will allow you to obtain some eye catching summer and winter garden images. With blustery winds expected to set in very soon garden fencing is the perfect protection for your garden.
The panels you choose is very much your decision but treated panels in particular have a design that allows the wind to pass through the fencing rather than pressure the fence which reduces the chances of your garden fencing collapsing.
Treated panels differ as they are dipped in wood treatment which allows the wood to soak up a protective dip. This then means that your fencing is not just protected by a coat of paint on the exterior but protected throughout the entire wooden panels which adds to the strength and reliability that the fence panels offer.
Fence panels
Pressure treated fence panels are constructed by being screwed in rather than nailed which makes the fence sturdier. Certain treated panel designs such as hit and miss have one front and rear panels that are screwed into a middle framing. Being designed in this way it ensures that wind has the opportunity to pass through small gaps which reduces the strength of the winds not only adding to the stability and reliability of your fence but also protecting your garden.
Compare this type of construction to the non treated fencing and you will certainly see a difference as the non pressure treated panels are nailed to each other rather than screwed which does not make them unreliable but not as stable as the treated designs.
As you would expect pressure treated panels are more expensive so it will also depend on your budget on which fence you can afford to buy. The advice we would offer if you are looking to buy garden fencing to protect your garden this coming winter and would be to purchase pressure treated panels. There are extensive ranges of fencing types that are treated so you will be able to find a garden fencing style to suit your home.
For example if you are looking for an original design then the horizontal hit and miss fencing are ideal. Or would you rather have a more attractive and contemporary design like the Prague fence panels. Garden fencing can be styled simply by altering the top of the panel for example a curved or wavey design adds appeal simply and effectively.
How To Smarten Up Your Existing Fence Panels
With winter looming in, you may find it easier to renovate your existing, tired looking fence panels, rather than replace them altogether. There are plenty of products out there that can smarten up your garden fence panels, without the expenditure of replacing them. Here are some tips for your consideration:
– The use of trellis can add an attractive style to your existing fence panels. Trellis comes in a range of sizes, or can be made to measure to suit specific requirements. Use trellis on top of a fence panel to add height, or against the sides so that your panels can be covered in attractive climbing plants. It is good to consider what type of climbing plant you will use, as some more aggressive species can actually damage your fence panels. Here is a list of some of the best plants for using with your trellis:
- Hydrangea Petiolaris, which produce white flowers in spring
- Clemetis, which give white flowers in February
- Wisteria, which will need pruning as it can get out of control if left unattended
- Climbing roses, which are available in a range of colours.
– If your panels are in relatively good condition, but are just looking like they need a bit of refreshing, or if you just fancy a change, try using fence paints or stains. These will spruce up your fence without the need for extravagant expense. Consider colours that compliment and match any other garden timber you may have, and be mindful when choosing bright, wacky colours that you might change your mind about later!
– Using post caps and finials on your fence is a great way to smarten up fence panels. You can choose from a range of options and find the composite fencing panels colour to match, or paint the caps to suit. When buying post caps or finials, make sure they are a little wider than your posts, to help protect the top from weather damage.
A final point is about the importance of using gravel boards underneath your fence panels. A gravel board prevents the panel from being in direct contact with the ground, which prolongs the life of your fence. If you erect panels without using gravel boards the bottom of the panel will eventually rot and you will need to replace the entire panel. Therefore, gravel boards are a wise and cost effective, long term purchase that will ensure your fence panels stay in good condition for many years.
